How To Make The Most Of Shore Excursions: Viking Cruises Danube Waltz

Updated for 2024

In October I joined Viking  Cruises on the Danube Waltz cruise. This was my second river cruise and I was blown away by the grand cities, small towns, and the inspiring shore excursions on this Viking Danube cruise.

Traveling with Viking Cruises is special– from the unique cultural immersion programs, shore excursions, elegantly designed cruise ships, entertainment, and food and beverage program. I recently took the Mediterranean Odyssey cruise. A fellow passenger who had traveled on many other cruises withViking’s competitors said, “I’m impressed and I would cruise with Viking again.” 

 

 

Optional shore excursions Danube Waltz 

Viking offers classic and iconic tours with local guides at every port–some are optional, and some are included. Every shore excursion is listed in your cruise documents and on the Viking website.  I take all of the included tours because Viking only books guides who are experts on their chosen destination.

Optional excursions are designed to give you further opportunities to dive deeper into the culture. In Budapest, you could visit the iconic Széchenyi Bathhouse for a slice of local life, or learn to make Hungarian pancakes and tour the Grand Market. There is an additional charge for optional shore excursions. 

 

 

What Makes The Danube Waltz Shore Excursions Special? 

One of the exclusive Viking excursions offered on the Danube Waltz itinerary was a visit to Gottweig Abbey with spectacular views over the Wachau Valley. Viking guests have the opportunity to tour the 900-year-old abbey, view a short film about life at the abbey, and admire the extensive art collection.

We also enjoyed a taste of sparkling apricot wine made by the Benedictine monks who live and work at the abbey. Viking is the only cruise line with access to Gottweig Abbey. This is one example of Viking’s privileged access tours. 

Cultural programs 

Participating in the cultural programs offered onboard is another way to enrich your experience– and some of my most memorable moments were on the ship. At least two of our seven nights included live music performed by expert guest musicians. One night we were entertained by a classical opera singer and another night the Bratislava Men’s Choir.

Before arriving in Vienna we enjoyed a musical evening that included our Program Director (a classical violinist) playing the violin for us, as well as learning about the classical music inheritance Vienna gave the world.  We also received the 411 on Vienna’s world-renowned coffee houses. 

Even though I’m a very independent traveler, I quickly grew to appreciate the preparation and expertise provided…I could simply enjoy the immersion in the history and culture of each port.

 

 Make the most of Shore Excursions on the Danube

Important Tip: Your Viking Cruise Documents

Shortly after confirming your booking, you’ll receive your cruise documents in the mail. Everything you need to know about arrival, departure, currency, the cruise ship, the ports, food and beverage, tipping, baggage, and Viking’s commitment to you is within the pages of your cruise documents. Read it. It is for your convenience.

Online information 

You will find a wealth of information on the website too, such as suggestions for films and mini-language lessons related to your itinerary. Everything is designed to enhance your trip. I read two historical books about Vienna from the suggested reading list. I have always found that having some historical context makes any experience more enjoyable and deepens my understanding.  The website also has extensive details about your Viking longship. 

Consider your interests and fitness level 

To make the most of the shore excursions offered, consider your interests and your level of fitness.

For example, some tours involve steep walks or bicycling. If for some reason you are unable to walk up a steep hill or steps, don’t go on that tour. The level of difficulty is indicated in the description of the tour. If you don’t like dancing, then you shouldn’t take a waltz lesson in Vienna.

Our tour director jokingly referred to traveling with Viking as bootcamp, but it’s somewhat true. Most tours begin early morning and leave by 8:00 am. If having free time on your own is more important to you, that’s ok too, you’re under no obligation to take any tours.

Preparation is key to a great day

You’ll want to get up early enough to have breakfast.  Most tours last one and a half or two hours unless it’s a destination like Gottweig Abbey or Cesky Krumlov, which are half-day trips. You won’t have a chance to eat again until the end of the tour. Of course, you can tuck something into your day bag if you need a snack before lunch.

Audio devices

Every room onboard the ship has a set of audio devices that you take with you on tours (one per person). They allow you to hear the tour guide even if you’re in the back of the group. Make sure your device(s) are charged and ready to go each morning.  I forgot mine once and yes, there was a spare, but don’t count on this.

The best practice is to put it back on the charger first thing when you return to the ship.  

Port talks, Viking’s 411

Before dinner each day there is a gathering in the lounge for a port talk with the Program Director. You’ll want to attend these talks. Aside from being informative, they’re fun. Have a drink, sit next to someone new, strike up a conversation, and make dinner plans. In addition, you’ll usually hear from the Chef about menu specialties for the evening. There is always a regional menu, as well as classical cuisine prepared with local ingredients. 

 

Each evening, you will find a Viking Daily newsletter in your room with information about the next port city, as well as some fun trivia about the region, food and culture, restaurant suggestions, and other tips. These are great for making note of things you want to be sure not to miss. The Viking Daily was often my evening reading material–I’m geeky that way. 

To recap: Sleep well, wake up early, eat breakfast, and have everything you need for the next day ready to go. And make sure you don’t forget your earbuds and audio device. 

 

Pro Tip: Always carry the contact information for the boat with you, including the phone number– and make sure your cell phone is charged (carry a spare battery if needed).  I was once separated from the group and my bag was on the bus. But,  I had my cell phone in my pocket (because I was taking photos with it) and the card with the number for the boat. I was able to call the boat and explain what happened and where I was. Happily, they didn’t sail without me. 

Viking Danube Waltz: Ports & Shore Excursions

 Budapest to Passau 

Now that all the details are out of the way, let’s check out the ports and shore excursions on Viking’s Danube Waltz cruise. In 2023 & 2024 Conde Nast magazine’s Travelers’ Choice Awards named Viking the “Best Danube River Cruise Operator,” for its small ships, elegant staterooms, regional Austrian and Hungarian cuisine, and expert staff. Now that I’ve done this cruise I would offer my vote as well. I enjoyed my dance along the blue Danube–and my dance card was always full.

 

 

I joined the Danube Waltz in Budapest– it was apparent right away why it is referred to as the Paris of the East–the lights along the river and bridges are very romantic. And because Viking is given first preference in Budapest, your ship will be docked within a short walk of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a suspension bridge connecting the two parts of the city. It is easily one of the most beautiful bridges crossing the Danube.

 

 

The Panoramic Budapest tour takes you by bus around Pest, then up Buda Castle Hill to visit Matthias Church (named for King Matthias) and the Fisherman’s Bastion. The views are spectacular, so be sure you have your camera or phone ready for action. 

 

Budapest is intriguing because it is two cities divided by the river; on the west side is Buda and on the east side, Pest. Pest is a treasure of art nouveau and 19th-century architecture with a wonderful market, great restaurants, and shopping. More recent historical monuments, like Hero’s Square, can be seen on the Pest side.  Andrassy Avenue, the main drag, is called the Champs Elysee of the East. It’s lined with gorgeous architecture, museums and galleries, and some good shops, too. 

Buda Castle Hill, the Parliament building, the iconic Chain Bridge, and the banks of the Danube have all received UNESCO World Heritage designation. 

Bratislava 

The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is the only capital that borders two countries, Hungary and Austria.  In its heyday, Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria, spent quite a lot of time there, as it was part of the Hungarian Empire.  

The charming historic center is an inviting place to spend a day or two.  I would say Bratislava is emerging as one of the more interesting cities along the Danube. Despite being small for a capital city (population around 450,000), there is good shopping and fun pubs, and I spotted what looked like a nice wine bar. After your Bratislava Panoramic tour, shop for something special to take home. I brought home a music box with The Kiss, a painting by Gustav Klimt, on the cover. Some people think mementos like that are cheesey, but I loved the music it plays.

 

The included excursion in Bratislava is either a walking tour or a drive/walk. The drive will take you up the hill to Bratislava Castle, the former home of the Hungarian crown jewels. Both tours include a walk through the charming old town along the Amber Road, once a trade route linking Northern and Southern Europe. You’ll also see St. Martins’ Cathedral, which was the coronation church for ten kings, and where Maria Theresa was crowned Queen of Hungary in 1741.

Vienna excursions

Oh, Vienna! With so much beauty and culture on offer, how can anyone make a choice when it comes to excursions? In addition to the included city tour, six optional shore excursions are offered–from the Imperial Vienna tour to a classical music concert. I took the included tour, then spent the day walking the streets of Vienna before returning to the ship for the optional Heurigen evening excursion. For a great time filled with music, food, and wine I highly recommend it.

 

The included tour, Panoramic Vienna, is a city tour that covers the highlights of the historic center, protected by UNESCO. This includes the exterior of the Hofburg Palace, a walk by the stables of the Lipizzaner Stallions, the Roman ruins that have been excavated just outside the palace, and the magnificent St Stephen’s Cathedral. A tour of the Schónbrunn Palace can be purchased as an optional excursion. 

No matter what you do in Vienna, you’ll want to take some time for that most Viennese of traditions, coffee. Did you know that Viennese coffee culture is classified as an intangible cultural heritage and recognized by UNESCO? I managed to try three different places: Demel, Cafe Eiles, and Cafe Espresso.

What makes Demel special?

Everyone should try Demel, located in the historic center just outside of the Hofburg Palace. Demel served the royal palace and its inhabitants and is one of the oldest coffee houses in Vienna . I had hot chocolate because I knew I would have coffee later; my friends all ordered some sort of special Viennese coffee drink. Everything was served in classical style on a small silver tray with a shot of water on the side.

I quite like this tradition and wish it would make its way stateside. Demel is also known for its fantastic pastries and cakes. There’s a kitchen in the back where you can watch them making these sweet creations. 

 

Optional excursion in Vienna

The Heurigen evening was a highlight of the trip for me. You’re probably wondering what a Heurigen is if you’ve never been to Austria. The Heurigen refers to a seasonal winery only open after harvest, when the winemaker will then sell the new wine. Heurige means from this year.  A Heurigen evening includes not only wine but lots of food too–something that is not traditional but has grown with the times and popularity with tourists.

 

As guests of Viking, we were treated to an evening at Heuriger Wolff, one of the oldest winemaking families in Vienna. You’ll see the sign above the entrance says 1609…that’s a long time! There was live traditional music, many toasts, and a feeling of gemutlichkeit, or good cheer, was present. One of the crew members who was along with us for the Heurigen evening said he never missed the opportunity to go. That’s a darn good recommendation. 

 

Krems and Gottweig Abbey 

Ah, Krems. I woke up and looked out my window to see church steeples piercing a heavy layer of fog.  We may have left the glamour of Vienna behind, but there was more Austrian treasure to discover. Krems and Stein, once two separate towns, are part of the Wachau Valley cultural landscape. Settlement in Krems dates back to the Neolithic era. It was once more important than Vienna for its wine and salt trade. Cobblestone streets and vineyard terraces are the hallmarks of this charming town.  Also, the tour to Gottweig Abbey departs from Krems.

 

Scenic Sailing through the Wachau Valley

 When the ship departs Krems, have your camera ready, because the rest of the day will be spent cruising the extraordinary Wachau Valley.

The Wachau Valley stretches from Krems to Melk and has been a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. It is considered the prettiest part of the Danube River. The Wachau is mainly known for picturesque castle ruins, medieval towns, and terraced vineyards.

Grapes grown in the Wachau Valley

The signature grape is Gruner Veltliner, a white wine grape that produces a wine that is acidic and aromatic, with notes of citrus and pepper. Another important grape from the Wachau is Riesling – usually dry and crisp, though there are late-harvest dessert wines too.

Linz and Cesky Krumlov excursions

The next port is Linz, and two excursions are included: a guided tour of Linz, home of the Linzer torte, and a walking tour of the storybook town of Cesky Krumlov, another Unesco World Heritage Site located in the Czech Republic. You can choose to stay in the port and tour Linz or travel to Cesky Krumlov, a full-day excursion. Or, choose to do whatever you like, perhaps relaxing on the upper deck of the ship.

Linz was heavily bombed during WWII as it was an important industrial city. However, there are still some buildings of architectural and historical significance, such as the Mozarthaus, where the composer wrote the Linz Symphony.  The Haufplatz is the main square surrounded by shops, cafes, and historic buildings. There’s a huge Christmas Market here during the holiday season. 

If you want to do something really special in Linz take the train up to Pöstlingberg where you can view Linz from 1700 feet up! As you can see from my photo it is high enough I was above the clouds. Aside from the view, you can visit the Basilica of the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary, established as a pilgrimage church in 1716. 

The train takes only twenty minutes and I bought a ticket from the tourism office. It was 7.50 euros roundtrip. Worth it! 

The tourism office is right across from where you board the train. 

Cesky Krumlov Walking Tour

Transport to Cesky Krumlov is by bus, which allows one to gaze upon the pretty countryside. Our guide regaled us with history and stories of growing up in a communist country, as well as what life is like in the Czech Republic today. I learned a lot! 

 

Once in Cesky Krumlov, the tour includes the exterior of the upper and lower castle, the town hall, the pharmacy, and the monastery. The castle buildings, as well as most of the buildings in the center of the town, are covered in the most beautiful frescoes. I marveled at how well restored they are.

 

 After the tour, we had lunch at a traditional Czech restaurant specializing in regional food, in other words, peasant food for hard-working people. I had the most delicious cabbage soup there thanks to the recommendation of our tour guide. It was so good I’ve prepared it at home several times. 

 

 

My only regret was that there wasn’t enough time to visit the castle museums, climb the tower, float down the Vltava River, and eat lunch.  My tip for this trip: if possible, go in the offseason or spend the night. Cesky Krumlov has become very popular and is crawling with tourists, especially around the castle. Once you filter into the town, it’s less congested.  However, if that’s not an option, just go! It’s worth it.

Passau excursions

The final port on this cruise is Passau, Germany, a most charming slice of Bavaria, founded over 2000 years ago at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers. Overlooking the town and the river,  Veste Oberhaus is an old fort, built in 1219.  Aside from the stellar views in season, there is a beer garden.

 The Passau Walking Tour, the included shore excursion,  is a stroll through the city culminating in an organ concert at St. Stephen’s church. A baroque dream that will surely remind you of Rome and Bernini, St. Stephen’s is home to Europe’s largest pipe organ. It has more than 17,000 pipes. 

 

I loved Passau – it felt like I was in Italy with its winding cobblestone alleyways, Baroque facades, arches, and even businesses with Italian names.  If you didn’t look at the street signs you might not know where you were but then again, there was no graffiti and everything was very clean and organized.

An optional tour from Passau is the Neuschwanstein Castle tour. Transportation to Neuschwanstein Castle, said to be the inspiration for the Disney castle, is by helicopter. Other optional tours from Passau include hiking the Passau hills, Bavaria by bike, and a visit to a Bavarian farm.

Alas, Passau was our port of disembarkation. Not only that, but it was time to say goodbye to Viking and new friends. If you would like to extend your stay, Viking can arrange that for you. Many people extend their time to visit Prague, Munich, or return to Vienna. 

 A Viking cruise guarantees a cultural experience like no other. Now, armed with all this pre-cruise knowledge, you can make the most of every shore excursion on the Viking Danube Waltz. 

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Viking Cruises sponsored part of my trip. As always, if I don’t like something, I don’t write about it. All opinions are mine alone.